Mycorrhizal Fungi may be the saviour of agriculture

Mary discussed the importance of mycorrhizal fungi in agriculture and their role in maintaining soil fertility, structure, and water retention. She highlighted the negative effects of industrial farming, such as soil depletion, erosion, and loss of mycorrhizal fungi, which leads to reduced nutrient content in crops and increased pest and disease issues. In contrast, regenerative agriculture practices, which involve maintaining 100% cover and promoting soil health, can lead to increased resilience, reduced input costs, and higher quality crops. Dr. emphasized the need to partner with nature and protect the soil to ensure sustainable agriculture in the future.

Mary discussed the importance of mycorrhizal fungal biomass in maintaining soil health, resilience, and nutrient availability. She emphasized that this biomass is crucial for producing healthy food in the face of climate change and unreliable weather patterns. Mary also highlighted the role of mycorrhizal fungi in holding moisture, soil structure, and carbon, and how they can help stabilize carbon in the soil. She criticized conventional agriculture methods, such as ploughing and synthetic chemistry use, which destroy mycorrhizal fungi and negatively impact soil health. She advocated for regenerative agriculture and biological farming practices, which promote soil health and mycorrhizal fungal growth, and can help feed the world sustainably. She also pointed out the issue of food waste and the need for better distribution and consumption practices.
Sustainable Farming Practices and Climate Change
Helen and Mary discussed the importance of sustainable farming practices, particularly the use of chemicals in farming. Helen emphasized the commitment to supporting farmers in understanding the soil and farming without chemicals. Mary discussed the challenges of growing European plants in Australian soil, suggesting a shift towards native grasses and plants. Bilby, a resident of southwest Western Australia, shared their experiences with rapid climate change and regenerative farming, expressing interest in finding cost-effective seed sources and learning more about the “microbe follow the minerals” approach. Billy discussed the positive changes observed on their property, including increased biological activity and the growth of native species. Helen expressed confidence in Billy’s commitment to restoration efforts.
Organic Seeds Challenges and Solutions Discussed
Helen and Mary discussed the challenges of obtaining organic seeds and the need to keep moving forward. Mary shared a solution used in Africa and Australia, where seeds are washed and coated with compost tea before planting, to overcome the issue of unavailability or unaffordability of organic seeds. Helen suggested that the chat could be used to find a source of native seed in Western Australia. The conversation also touched on the importance of not having bare soil, as it leads to bacterial domination and the need for weedy species to colonize to protect the soil.
Organic Seed Challenges and Solutions Discussed
Mary shared a solution used in Africa and Australia to meet the challenges of obtaining organic seeds.  To overcome the issue of unavailability or unaffordability of organic seeds, the seeds are washed and coated with compost tea before planting.  The conversation also touched on the importance of not having bare soil, as it leads to bacterial domination and the need for weedy species to colonize and protect the soil.
Native Species Preference and Soil Stabilization
Mary discussed the preference for native species over introduced ones, such as Kikuyu and Cooch, for soil stabilization and nutrient retention. She also mentioned her laboratory, Agpath, which has been working with farmers globally since 1980, providing a full profile of soil microbiology and chemistry. She also addressed the issue of contamination, stating that her lab looks at the biological aspect of contamination, often finding that the biology is out of balance. She also mentioned the use of plants and microbes to clean up contaminated sites. Helen facilitated the discussion and encouraged others to ask questions.
Fungal Roles in Soil Health and Compost Tea
Mary discussed the roles of saprophytic and mycorrhizal fungi in soil health. Saprophytic fungi break down organic matter, while mycorrhizal fungi help living plant roots by harvesting phosphorus from the soil. Helen sought further clarification on the use of chemicals to control weeds. Mary concluded by emphasizing the importance of fungal domination in soil health and the potential benefits of using compost tea to achieve this.
Farming Strategies and Organic Materials Discussion
The discussion emphasised the importance of understanding and adapting to local conditions for successful farming, particularly in drought-prone areas. They also touched on the use of molasses and other organic materials in farming, with Mary explaining the role of aerobic and saprophytic organisms in breaking down these materials. Jim shared his experience with using mill mud and molasses in his Queensland farm, and Mary confirmed that these practices are beneficial. The conversation ended with Mary offering to answer further questions via email or through her website: https://www.agpath.com.au/ which is preferred so all can benefit. Helen expressed gratitude for Dr Cole’s insights